Costantino, 31, was born into the asphalt business. His father owned an asphalt company in Providence, R.I. Costantino was running an asphalt roller when he was 12 years old.

The harsh winters of Rhode Island drove Costantino down to Florida. He joined the city of Coral Springs five years ago as an equipment operator and has since been promoted to crew leader.

His expertise has allowed the city to upgrade its road repair program, according to Richard Carlson, assistant director of public works. Before Costantino joined the city, he said city crews fixed potholes with a temporary cold patch rather than applying hot asphalt.

Costantino's crew has also constructed several bike paths, something the city never did before.

Costantino enjoys his current job as a crew leader because it allows him to teach the finer points of asphalt work to his workers.

In Rhode Island, Costantino always worked in the construction business, often 60 to 70 hours a week. Now he enjoys only working 40 hours a week, which allows him time to enjoy Florida. He also likes the job security.

"It's the best job I've ever had," he said. "I've made more money (in other jobs) but I didn't like it as much.

"In construction, you don't enjoy yourself. You don't smell the roses along the way because you're always working."